Diagnostic Laparoscopy

Fibroids, endometriosis, and other gynecological problems can be diagnosed using a procedure called diagnostic laparoscopy. The procedure involves using a specialized camera to allow the doctor to see inside the patient's body. Depending on what is found, the doctor may be able to treat the problems as well. Because it is a simpler, less invasive procedure than traditional open abdominal surgery, diagnostic laparoscopy offers advantages such as quicker recovery times. As with all procedures, there is a risk of complications, including infection, bleeding, and blood clots.

What Is Diagnostic Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a tool used for diagnosing and treating several different conditions by actually looking inside the body with a specialized camera. There are a number of different types of laparoscopic procedures, such as:
 
  • Laparoscopic appendectomy (removal of the appendix)
  • Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder)
  • Laparoscopic hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
     
This article will discuss diagnostic laparoscopy, which is a procedure used to look inside a woman's abdomen.
 
A diagnostic laparoscopy offers patients many advantages over traditional surgery. With laparoscopy, patients usually have shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times, because it is a simpler, less invasive procedure.
 

Possible Diagnostic Laparoscopy Findings

There are several conditions involving the female reproductive tract that can cause pain, discomfort, and/or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Laparoscopy can be a very effective means for evaluating these conditions. Furthermore, depending on what is found, it may also be possible to treat the condition using a laparoscope.
 
It is impossible to list all of the possible conditions that could require exploration and possible treatment with a laparoscopy. However, common gynecological problems evaluated with a laparoscope include:
 
  • Endometriosis
  • Pelvic adhesions
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Pelvic or ovarian masses, such as ovarian cysts 
  • Fibroids
  • Infertility and sterilization.
     
Your doctor will be able to describe to you the suspected reason for your symptoms and any abnormal findings associated with them.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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